Are you looking for the best picnic spots in Stellenbosch? We’ve created a list of our favourite winery-picnics in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s second-oldest town.
Stellenbosch is picture-perfect in every way – from its oak-lined avenues and Cape Dutch façades to the cosy cafés that spill out onto its pavements.
With several centuries of wine-making heritage, the diversity and depth of wine tasting, wine pairing and now wine picnics in Stellenbosch deliver something for every taste. Settle into the cosiness of comfortable cushions and blankets on lush green lawns against the backdrop of Stellenbosch’s vineyards.
Crack open your picnic basket brimming with bread, cheeses, pâtés and other delectable goodies freshly baked and made with characteristic Stellenbosch generosity and love. Watch the kids frolic on the lawns, savour the crisp flavours of chilled Chenin or a romantic Rosé – all while enjoying your beautiful surroundings.
Ready to unpack the best picnics in Stellenbosch? Check out our favourites below:
Best wine farm picnic spots in Stellenbosch
Located on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain, Delheim is the picture-perfect getaway, and by far one of the best picnic spots in Stellenbosch if for nothing else, its river and mountain views. Enjoy a picnic for two under the estate’s old oak trees, with a kiddie basket available for the little ones. You’ll hear the sound of the nearby Klip River and the resident birds as you devour snoek paté, pickled pumpkin and green fig and mascarpone, among other local favourites. Pop the cork on Delheim’s signature Pinotage Rosé, and you have an afternoon made in heaven.
Hazendal offers a tasty blend of South African and Russian al fresco delights for their picnic patrons. Some of the local favourites include Babushka artisan bread, paired with Dukkha roast chicken, Crunchy Asian salad, mixed seeds, cashew nuts, ginger-and-soy dressing, and Russian Olivier potato salad topped off with a sinfully sweet dessert from Hazendal’s Babushka Deli pastry kitchen. Hazendal also offers a vegetarian option. To top it off, there’s a kiddies’ basket for youngsters when you spend the day picnicking in Stellenbosch with your loved ones.
For winery picnics in Stellenbosch that ooze sophistication, Quoin Rock is a match made in heaven. Located on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountains, this is the ideal location to soak up the breath-taking scenery, not to mention the array of art strategically placed in its beautifully manicured gardens. Settle into their custom-built picnic pods (equipped with tables and chairs) for an afternoon of lively conversation and elegant flavours. And for children, there are jumping castles and kiddies’ baskets, so the little ones are sure to enjoy themselves too.
Renowned as one of the best picnic spots in Stellenbosch, Spier provides world-class wine and a range of picnic spots delivering different views of the property. Whether you decide to relax at the edge of the dam or kick back under old oak trees, Spier certainly doesn’t disappoint. With vegan and vegetarian options, this picnic option accommodates everyone, providing tasty baskets filled with a range of delightful stacks. Spier also offers healthy picnic baskets for the kids and a fun-filled day out that’s perfect for families, couples and friends.
Enjoy an absurdly relaxing day, ideal for families, couples and friends who want to bond over fine foods, served in delightful picnic baskets that cater to all your needs. There’s a vegetarian and vegan option paired Warwick’s award-winning wines, surrounded by ripe vineyards. Tumble into their oversized cushions while the kids clamber on the jungle gyms in Warwick’s child-friendly area. Or invite friends over with tables’ that seat up to 12 of your favourite friends in comfort. This is why Warwick wins the title of one of the best picnic spots in Stellenbosch.
Zevenwacht has the option of three different picnic baskets, including vegetarian, as well as a kiddie’s basket with the most delectable chocolate brownies you’ll likely want to steal. If that’s not enough, Zevenwacht provides jumping castles and water slides, sure to keep your little ones entertained. Atop of this, it sets itself on beautifully shaded lawns that slope down into a paradisiacal lake. Crowing it as one of the best picnic spots in Stellenbosch.
Best outdoor picnic spots in Stellenbosch:
- Assegaaibosch
Likely one of the best picnic spots in Stellenbosch for groups of friends wanting to enjoy a beautiful picnic day out in nature, Assegaaibosch has a secret surprise set in the forest. Take a cooling dip, swim, or splash after your hike to find your best picnic spot. Admire the fynbos-clad landscapes and mountain backdrop as you unpack your tasty treats.
- Jan Marais Nature Reserve
Jan Marais Nature Reserve offers several picturesque picnic spots you can hike, walk or even mountain bike to. It’s ideal for families with there’s plenty of room for the little ones to run around. There’s even a labyrinth and art exhibitions. For pet lovers, the good news is that you can bring Fido along for a day out that’ll have your furry little friends thanking you for weeks. Forgot to bring the Cola? There’s a well-stocked kiosk on site for those wanting light refreshments.
- Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
This reserve, known for its mesmerising views, is one of the most picturesque picnic spots in Stellenbosch. Lace-up your hiking boots and set out to find the best backdrop for a picnic lunch you’ll never forget. Keep a keen eye out for the Black and Fish Eagles that find sanctuary in this reserve. For nature lovers, there are also over 1,100 plant species.
If you liked this list of best picnic spots in Stellenbosch, or have others you’d like to add to the mix; we’d love to hear from you. Tag us using #visitstellenbosch when you share your favourites on social media.
Looking for the best views in Stellenbosch? Click here for our Top 10 spots with the best views in Stellenbosch.